Every year, more than 500,000 people in the United States are treated in the emergency room for injuries sustained in bicycle accidents.
Almost one-half of all bicycle-motor vehicle crashes occur at intersections, making them one of the most dangerous places to ride. Bicycle accidents at intersections can result from a number of factors. In some cases, a distracted driver may not notice that a bicyclist is approaching the intersection.
Even if a driver is paying attention, bikers can be difficult to see, particularly on congested roads or in dark conditions. Drivers can also misjudge the speed and location of a bicyclist when passing or turning at an intersection. In other cases, bike riders may be at fault for failing to obey traffic signals or attempting to pass vehicles stopped at an intersection. With this in mind, we urge bicyclists to always approach intersections with caution.
Below are a few specific tips:
- Make sure you are visible to others on the road: Wear reflective or light-colored clothing, and equip your bike with lights if riding at night.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Bicyclists should always be on the lookout for motor vehicles and others on the roadway.
- Ride defensively: In addition to maintaining awareness, bicyclists should also be prepared to react to changing conditions.
- Follow the rules of the road: Bicyclists are also required to obey traffic signals and traffic laws.
- Take advantage of bike paths and bike lanes: Traveling away from motor vehicles is one of the best ways to stay safe. Therefore, riders should take advantage of special lanes and paths designated for bikes.
The Dellutri Law Group is focused on making bad situations better and putting lives back together. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a Naples accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. To learn more about your legal options, contact our experienced Naples injury attorneys for a free consultation.
